Cholesterol and blood thinners
Statins
Used for
High cholesterol; lower heart attack and stroke risk
How it works
Block the liver enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that makes cholesterol, lowering LDL, the "bad" cholesterol.
Watch for
Muscle pain. Some interact with clarithromycin and grapefruit.
- Name clue
- -statin
- Examples
- atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- rosuvastatin (Crestor)
- simvastatin (Zocor)
- pravastatin (Pravachol)
More in cholesterol and blood thinners
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitorsHigh cholesterol, often with a statin
- FibratesHigh triglycerides
- Vitamin K antagonists (warfarin)Prevent and treat blood clots
- Factor Xa inhibitorsPrevent clots and strokes (blood thinner)
- Direct thrombin inhibitorsPrevent clots and strokes (blood thinner)
- HeparinsPrevent and treat clots, often in the hospital
- AntiplateletsPrevent heart attack and stroke; after stents
A study and reference aid. Follow the product labeling and your pharmacist for anything about a patient's medicine.
Studying for the PTCE?
Drug classes are a big part of the Medications domain. Gutta's lessons and practice questions cover them, with an explanation for every answer.
Start free